Nano pine trees

May 12/19, 2008
When a nanowire grows with a twisted rather than straight crystal structure, it forms a nano-size pine tree structure. The dislocation of the atoms along the nanowire causes branches to sprout in a spiral staircase pattern. Until now such structures have required metal nanoparticles as catalysts. The branched nanowires could be used to make optical and electronic devices.

Research paper:
Dislocation-Driven Nanowire Growth and Eshelby Twist
Science, published online May 1, 2008

Researcher homepage(s):
Song Jin

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